Jack Raymond Minnite

Jack departed this world surrounded by his family on October 24, 2025, at the age of 79. Jack and Genell were happily married for 59 years. Jack was a devoted and beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, mentor, and hero.

He is preceded in death by his grandson Lucca Minnite. He is survived by his wife, Genell, son Lance Minnite, son Vince Minnite and wife Jennifer, daughter Lisa and husband Brian Trapani, grandchildren Giovanni Minnite, Sophia Minnite, Matteo Minnite, Michael Trapani, Anthony Trapani, and Dominic Trapani.

Jack Minnite was born on July 22, 1946, in Price, Utah. He grew up in Vallejo and Cantua Creek, California. He attended Cantua Creek Elementary School and Tranquility High School, graduating in 1964. Jack excelled in football at Tranquility High School and further advanced his career at Coalinga College. He was a part of the 1964 Football Championship team that was later inducted into the Coalinga College Hall of Fame. He received his associate’s degree in 1966. It was at this moment in time at Coalinga College, Jack met Genell, the love of his life.

Jack grew up with a sense of purpose, he was the kind of man who fixed what was broken whether it was a piece of machinery or someone’s faith in themselves. There was an ease about him, a natural generosity, that never asked for recognition. He loved deeply, listened intently, and believed in doing things the right way the first time. He was compassionate, a man of his word, and a loyal friend.

Jack would own and operate two successful restaurants, Three Rocks Cafe and Jack’s Prime Time, over a span of 48 years. Most people recall his firm handshake welcoming them as a lifelong friend and even as family. He was kind hearted and a man of his word. He enjoyed and cherished his friendships. He will be remembered for his generosity, wisdom and heartfelt advice throughout genuine conversations, and innovative problem solving ideas shared over a cup of coffee.

Outside of the restaurant, Jack enjoyed being an active member of his community. He was a selfless, dedicated advocate for education, using his voice to speak up for the access and advancement of education for all. He served on the West Hills College Board of Trustees for 22 years, contributing greatly to the development of the Firebaugh and Lemoore campuses. Upon his retirement in 2011, he received an honorary associate’s degree in culinary arts from West Hills College, recognizing his devotion to making a difference in his community.

Jack will be greatly missed. He touched the lives of so many and built an amazing legacy with unconditional love he so willingly shared with all of us.

In honor of Jack, a gift of memorial trees may be planted with the Arbor Foundation. https://shop.arborday.org/

There will be a Celebration of Life for Jack on April 11, 2026, from 1:00pm to 4:00 pm at The Clinker Brick Estate 6164 Ave 7 ½ Firebaugh, CA 93622